Particle.news
Download on the App Store

USC Rallies Past Iowa 26-21 in Rain to Keep Playoff Bid Alive

A second-half shutout behind Jayden Maiava’s poise kept USC on track for a playoff push heading to Oregon.

Overview

  • Jayden Maiava threw for 254 yards as Makai Lemon hauled in 10 catches for 153 yards and a second-half touchdown.
  • Bryan Jackson scored twice, including the 4-yard go-ahead run with 13:36 left set up by Jahkeem Stewart’s interception.
  • USC’s defense blanked Iowa after halftime despite injuries in the secondary, allowing just 108 total yards in the final two quarters.
  • Iowa led 21-7 at the break as Mark Gronowski accounted for three first-half touchdowns (pass, rush, reception) before the Hawkeyes’ last drive ended on downs at the USC 29.
  • The Trojans improved to 8-2 (6-1 Big Ten) and now visit Oregon at Autzen Stadium in a matchup that will largely determine their playoff path.